Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam speaks at the daily press conference from West Block in Ottawa to update Canadians about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on April 2, 2020. Andrew Meade/iPolitics

Canada’s chief public health officer is now recommending the use of non-medical masks in situations where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Dr. Theresa Tam made the announcement Wednesday during her regular media availability in Ottawa, saying her recommendation changed after receiving new information about asymptomatic carriers of COVID-19.

“Although we don’t fully understand their role in transmission, it is an added layer of protection, even for people who don’t have symptoms,” she explained.

“Now that we’re…restarting a lot of the activities, the chief medical officers felt that they can recommend this people who cannot maintain that two metre distance.”

Tam had initially been reluctant about recommending the use of masks for non-medical professionals, though last month acknowledged that wearing a non-medical mask could help stem the spread of COVID-19. She had long stressed that masks should be reserved for those with COVID-19 and for medical staff to preserve supplies.

However, since that time, many provinces have taken steps to restart their economies, with Ontario on Tuesday permitting the opening of many retailers, though with physical distancing measures in place.

“From our perspective, it is an added layer of protection. It is for you to protect others. So if two people wear masks, I’m protecting you and you’re protecting me,” Tam explained.

Earlier on Wednesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he has started wearing a mask in situations where he is in close proximity to others.

“That’s my personal choice. I think that’s what is aligned with what public health is recommending,” he said.

Trudeau confirmed that he would wear a mask in the hallways of Parliament but not when he is at his desk in the House chamber.